Kerala Dances

Chavittunatakom

Christian art form, Chavittunatakom dates back to 16th Century AD as it came into existence during the Portuguese colonization. It is the dance form that portrays the definite traces of the European Christian Miracle Play.

Kathakali

Kerala is one of the nations that inhabit nearly 300-year-old classical dance form of Kathakali, combining facets of ballet, opera, masque and pantomime. The art form is believed to originate from other performing arts like Kootiyattam and Ramanattam.

Koothu

Favourite of Nangiars, Nangiar Koothu is a valuable art form. Depicting a solo dance drama mainly centering on the legends of Krishna, there is no dearth of verses that are delivered and interpreted through mime and dance. You can very well enjoy various 'Mudras' with much elaboration in Kootiyattam.

Mohiniyattam

Mohiniyattam is literally the 'dance of the celestial enchantress'. As we get enthralled by the sensual dance of Mohiniyattam, its celestial qualities make things more than significant for sightseers. This serious dance form enchants everyone. You can also find traces of Bharathnatyam as well along with a glimpse of folk dances of the state. As it comes with gradual, swaying movements that are graceful using the body as an instrument, the highly emotive eyes begin to reverberate across the witnesses.

Oppana

Oppana is particularly a wedding entertainment feast and is particularly celebrated by the Malabar Muslim families. On this occasion, maidens and young female relatives sing and dance together centering the bride and clap their hands. The event is recognized as 'Mappila Pattu' where the wedding songs are first sung by the leader and repeated by the chorus.